Recent intrauterine growth parameters of term Sudanese neonates in Khartoum compared to the findings three decades earlier.

The objective of this paper was to present anthropometric measurements of term Sudanese neonates which will reflect intrauterine growth. Secondly, to compare such parameters with that of a previous study done about three decades ago to show if there is any secular changes. Normal term neonates born to healthy mothers between the period of October 2010 to January 2011 at Khartoum Teaching Hospital were included in the study. There were certain criteria for inclusion and exclusion of the newborns and their mothers. Measurements of birth weight, crown-heel length and head circumferences were done in the first twenty four hours after birth. Statistical test of the difference between the means was used to show any significant difference. The means of birth weight, crown-heel length and head circumference for both sexes against gestational age were obtained. Comparing this study with the previous one showed no statistical significant difference for both sexes regarding the birth weight, crown-heel length but there is some difference between males head circumference. There is no evidence of upward secular trend regarding the intrauterine parameters.